Module 2

Section 4
Therapeutic Communication

Introduction to Module 2: Valerian Three Irons
(Click on the line above to hear Valerian) 

Dr. Gloria Craig Introduces Section 4 Concepts Communication is a transaction that occurs between a sender and a receiver but both the sender and the receiver are influenced by preexisting conditions that influence the communication process.

Communication is influenced by cultural values, attitudes, and beliefs. Communication has its roots embedded in the culture. Each culture communicates using verbal and nonverbal methods of communication. Communication can be expressed using various methods including language demonstrated using the spoken word, paralanguage or vocal cues which include the voice quality, intonation, rhythm, and speed of the spoken word, and gestures including touch, facial expression, eye movements, body posture, and physical appearance (Townsend, 1993). 

When communicating with Native American elders, nurses must be aware of several factors that influence the communication process including nonverbal communication, conversational tone, note taking, and time. 

View the PowerPoint presentation to learn about how these factors influence the communication process with Native American elders.

Communication is an essential process when providing culturally competent nursing care. Communication must be therapeutic in nature to be effective. Therapeutic communication involves the use of techniques such as using silence, offering self, restating, reflecting, and seeking clarification to name a few. Therapeutic communication involves displaying a genuine interest in the person communicating that is demonstrated through the use of a relaxed and comfortable body posture. Therapeutic communication requires the components of empathy, positive regard, and a positive sense of self (Craven & Hirnle, 2000).

View the PowerPoint presentation to learn about therapeutic communication components.

Non-therapeutic communication blocks the exchange of information between the nurse and the client. Eliminating communication barriers is essential for open communication. Non-therapeutic communication involves the use of barriers such as giving reassurance, rejecting, giving approval or disapproval, agreeing or disagreeing, giving advice, probing, and interpreting. Non-therapeutic communication involves displaying a lack interest in the person communicating that is demonstrated through a closed posture, restlessness, and inattentiveness.

Let’s listen to Madonna Blue Horse Beard as she describes how the Native American communication style differs from the American communication style.

As you can tell from the description by Madonna, in the Native American culture communication is a process that may require few words and yet is very effective tool.

Communication is an essential tool for the nurse/client relationship. Communication is influenced by beliefs, values, and culture and regardless of the culture, it is important for the nurse to use therapeutic communication techniques when interacting with clients from any culture.

This ends Section 4 of Module 2.  To review, we have defined and elaborated on the following concepts:

Other online resources regarding Native American Elders and Therapeutic Communication can be found at the following sites:

How to Overcome Communication Barriers

Breaking Cultural Communication Barriers

Thank you for your time and attention.  Please be sure
to take the Post-Test for Section 4 before proceeding to Module 3. 

Please complete the Evaluation Form and submit with tests.

Module 3 will focus on the Prevention and Treatment of Two Critical Health Care Issues: Substance Abuse and Elder Abuse.

Proceed to Module 3